Luckily today, tomorrow, and Saturday are relaxing days. We woke up this morning and at 9 went to the Great Synagogue in Jerusalem for Simacht Torah services. The guys had a lot of fun dancing with the torah but since it was an orthodox synagogue all the girls were really bored. So we left earlier than planned. When we got back to Tzuba we had lunch and then free time until 5:30. At 5:30 we had a program about simacht torah and then an auction for all the stuff people left on the bus after yam l’ yam (don’t worry none of it was mine). Then we went to dinner and then back to the zula (the lounge) for a program on yam l’ yam and announcements. The program was actually a lot of fun. We played hot potato but the version where each layer has a task. Each thing had to do with someone who did this, a memory, or an inside joke from the entire group. Then during announcements I learned that I am a torahnim (helper) this week. Which basically means I have to get everyone up, lock classrooms, clean the bus, and do other random things. Then we had more free time so I went to Yael’s room to type up the rest of my missed blogs. Then I skyped with keri and talked to some other people from home. Today I also stalked pictures from JELL-O and the whecty events I missed and got really sad. Everyone at home is having so much fun. ☹ I miss it.
p.s. woohoo i am finally caught up!
Thursday, September 30, 2010
After 6 days i may or may not still be alive
*FROM 9/29*
Like the last 5 days today were tiresome. We woke up at 5:30 (but all the girls woke up before then b/c there where bees around our heads), packed up everything, ate, and then got our bikes. The bikes were crap and most of us had bikes in which the gears didn’t really work. Most of the ride was downhill so I rode the breaks most of the time (but there were a few hills that I had to walk up b/c my bike couldn’t change to the proper gears). Eventually though we got to the Mediterranean Sea. It was so pretty! And all we wanted to do was jump in but instead we had to wrap up our yam l’ yam experience. Finally though we were able to run into the water. It was so refreshing and wonderful. The half hour we spent playing in the water was amazing! Then we changed, ate lunch, and got on the bus for our 2-hour ride back to Tzuba. The last few minutes of the ride were spent on announcements and we got our room assignments. Then we got to Tzuba, before we could get our keys, we had to empty all of our stuff from storage. Like always it took forever! But it eventually got done and we were able to unpack and shower (for the first time in a week). My shower was great! It was so nice to wash my hair and shave; I don’t think I have ever been so happy to be clean. At 4:20 we got on the bus to go to Gezer for simacht torah. We ate a bit, had services, and then danced and sang. At 7 we got on the bus to go back to tzuba for dinner. After dinner we had free time so I unpacked, hung out with my new roomies, and typed this (and typed up all the entries I wrote while we were away).
It is so hard to believe that in 6 days we hiked across Israel from the Kinneret to the Mediterranean.
Also my new room has even suckier Internet so my posts from now on prob. won’t be posted until the next morning.
Like the last 5 days today were tiresome. We woke up at 5:30 (but all the girls woke up before then b/c there where bees around our heads), packed up everything, ate, and then got our bikes. The bikes were crap and most of us had bikes in which the gears didn’t really work. Most of the ride was downhill so I rode the breaks most of the time (but there were a few hills that I had to walk up b/c my bike couldn’t change to the proper gears). Eventually though we got to the Mediterranean Sea. It was so pretty! And all we wanted to do was jump in but instead we had to wrap up our yam l’ yam experience. Finally though we were able to run into the water. It was so refreshing and wonderful. The half hour we spent playing in the water was amazing! Then we changed, ate lunch, and got on the bus for our 2-hour ride back to Tzuba. The last few minutes of the ride were spent on announcements and we got our room assignments. Then we got to Tzuba, before we could get our keys, we had to empty all of our stuff from storage. Like always it took forever! But it eventually got done and we were able to unpack and shower (for the first time in a week). My shower was great! It was so nice to wash my hair and shave; I don’t think I have ever been so happy to be clean. At 4:20 we got on the bus to go to Gezer for simacht torah. We ate a bit, had services, and then danced and sang. At 7 we got on the bus to go back to tzuba for dinner. After dinner we had free time so I unpacked, hung out with my new roomies, and typed this (and typed up all the entries I wrote while we were away).
It is so hard to believe that in 6 days we hiked across Israel from the Kinneret to the Mediterranean.
Also my new room has even suckier Internet so my posts from now on prob. won’t be posted until the next morning.
The hardest hiking day
*FROM 9/28*
This morning we woke up at 4 am! It was not fun at all. It was also cold and I am pretty sure one of my friends woke up asking if we were being punked. By 5 we were hiking. We had been told today would be the hardest day of hiking and indeed it was. Especially b/c I screwed up my ankle b/c of the rocky terrain. (If you are wondering why I went it is b/c although my ankle had hurt last night when I woke up it felt fine). At around 8:15ish we stopped for breakfast. An hour later we were back hiking. At 12:30 we stopped for lunch at a water pool and all put our feet in when we were done eating. My group decided we didn’t really want to cook and have to clean up so we just made sandwiches. At 2:30 we started hiking again. It wasn’t too bad until the last 20 min. in which we literally scaled up a mountain. When we got to the top it was huge relief! When we got to the campsite we changed, relaxed, and ate. Then for our evening activity we went stargazing. When we got back from stargazing we all feel asleep b/c it had made us so tired.
This morning we woke up at 4 am! It was not fun at all. It was also cold and I am pretty sure one of my friends woke up asking if we were being punked. By 5 we were hiking. We had been told today would be the hardest day of hiking and indeed it was. Especially b/c I screwed up my ankle b/c of the rocky terrain. (If you are wondering why I went it is b/c although my ankle had hurt last night when I woke up it felt fine). At around 8:15ish we stopped for breakfast. An hour later we were back hiking. At 12:30 we stopped for lunch at a water pool and all put our feet in when we were done eating. My group decided we didn’t really want to cook and have to clean up so we just made sandwiches. At 2:30 we started hiking again. It wasn’t too bad until the last 20 min. in which we literally scaled up a mountain. When we got to the top it was huge relief! When we got to the campsite we changed, relaxed, and ate. Then for our evening activity we went stargazing. When we got back from stargazing we all feel asleep b/c it had made us so tired.
Israelis
*FROM 9/27*
This morning wake up was at 6 but some of the Israeli girls didn’t like the idea of 6 and at 5:52 screamed b/c of a bee in their tent. The EIE boys didn’t seem to care but one of them commented saying the American girls are not going to be happy. He was right. We were all extremely mad that they woke us up. Anyway at 7:45 we put our stuff on the bus and started hiking. After an hour and half we stopped for breakfast. It was harder to make food b/c we had extra people in our group who had different taste bud than us Americans. After we ate we had some really stupid mixers that no one really wanted to participate in. Then we divided into our subgroups and did a navigating activity. My group was the first to start but then became 2nd, 3rd, and ended finishing 2nd b/c we took breaks and our staff member had us break to play a game. When we finally got to lunch we had about 2 hours to rest and eat. Right before we entered the campground we paused to play some games. When we walked up to the campsite we saw very few trees, no tents, no water source, and a highway. And it was freezing! Once again the Israelis had a ton of energy and the American kids did not so after dinner we all went to bed. Especially b/c unlike the Israelis we had to get up at 4 am (the Israelis were going home in the morning).
This morning wake up was at 6 but some of the Israeli girls didn’t like the idea of 6 and at 5:52 screamed b/c of a bee in their tent. The EIE boys didn’t seem to care but one of them commented saying the American girls are not going to be happy. He was right. We were all extremely mad that they woke us up. Anyway at 7:45 we put our stuff on the bus and started hiking. After an hour and half we stopped for breakfast. It was harder to make food b/c we had extra people in our group who had different taste bud than us Americans. After we ate we had some really stupid mixers that no one really wanted to participate in. Then we divided into our subgroups and did a navigating activity. My group was the first to start but then became 2nd, 3rd, and ended finishing 2nd b/c we took breaks and our staff member had us break to play a game. When we finally got to lunch we had about 2 hours to rest and eat. Right before we entered the campground we paused to play some games. When we walked up to the campsite we saw very few trees, no tents, no water source, and a highway. And it was freezing! Once again the Israelis had a ton of energy and the American kids did not so after dinner we all went to bed. Especially b/c unlike the Israelis we had to get up at 4 am (the Israelis were going home in the morning).
Real Survial Starts
*FROM 9/26*
Wake up this morning was at 5:30 am. It sucked! We got up, used our last “real” bathroom for 4 more days, cleaned up camp, and put all of our stuff we didn’t need for the day on the bus. Then we started our official hike. After an hour we stopped and made breakfast in our subgroups. My friend Jake went on Yam l’ yam 2 summers ago so he knew what to do and we put him in charge of cooking for the rest of the trip (but its ok cause he and I had a system-I made him peanut butter sandwiches and he cooked me food). Then we started hiking again. After 2 hours we stopped and did a navigating activity in our subgroups. Our group works really well together and is considerate of the pace we need to go which is nice. After navigating for about an hour we had lunch. We had veggies, salami, apples, pb&j, rice, and other sandwich combos. When we were done eating we had some free time to relax b/c there are time restrictions to when we can hike due to the heat. Then we started hiking again and our guide said there was no more uphill for the day…he lied! My breathing issues, blood flow issues, and lack of the ability to drink a ton of water did not like the uphill. Eventually we got to the top and then started walking down/across the mountain. The rest of the hike was fine and I survived. When we got to the campsite we got our stuff off the bus, filled up our waters, refilled our food supply we needed for tomorrow, and changed before the Israeli kids met up with us. It was really exciting when the Israelis came b/c I knew some of them (and they brought me food). Shiri showed up with homemade schnitzel sandwiches for Yael and I and they were really good. After meeting the rest of the Israelis and eating dinner we had a night activity. Basically we were all scattered throughout the woods and had to sit there for a half hour and embrace the sounds of nature at night. But that idea wasn’t favored by many of us. We were all so scared and I spent most of the time scanning the area with my flashlight b/c I heard scary noises. I also used my flashlight to make shadow puppets. Eventually they collected all of us and we were able to go back to the campsite. While the Israelis had a ton of energy ton of the EIE kids did and we all passed out.
Wake up this morning was at 5:30 am. It sucked! We got up, used our last “real” bathroom for 4 more days, cleaned up camp, and put all of our stuff we didn’t need for the day on the bus. Then we started our official hike. After an hour we stopped and made breakfast in our subgroups. My friend Jake went on Yam l’ yam 2 summers ago so he knew what to do and we put him in charge of cooking for the rest of the trip (but its ok cause he and I had a system-I made him peanut butter sandwiches and he cooked me food). Then we started hiking again. After 2 hours we stopped and did a navigating activity in our subgroups. Our group works really well together and is considerate of the pace we need to go which is nice. After navigating for about an hour we had lunch. We had veggies, salami, apples, pb&j, rice, and other sandwich combos. When we were done eating we had some free time to relax b/c there are time restrictions to when we can hike due to the heat. Then we started hiking again and our guide said there was no more uphill for the day…he lied! My breathing issues, blood flow issues, and lack of the ability to drink a ton of water did not like the uphill. Eventually we got to the top and then started walking down/across the mountain. The rest of the hike was fine and I survived. When we got to the campsite we got our stuff off the bus, filled up our waters, refilled our food supply we needed for tomorrow, and changed before the Israeli kids met up with us. It was really exciting when the Israelis came b/c I knew some of them (and they brought me food). Shiri showed up with homemade schnitzel sandwiches for Yael and I and they were really good. After meeting the rest of the Israelis and eating dinner we had a night activity. Basically we were all scattered throughout the woods and had to sit there for a half hour and embrace the sounds of nature at night. But that idea wasn’t favored by many of us. We were all so scared and I spent most of the time scanning the area with my flashlight b/c I heard scary noises. I also used my flashlight to make shadow puppets. Eventually they collected all of us and we were able to go back to the campsite. While the Israelis had a ton of energy ton of the EIE kids did and we all passed out.
fake hiking
*FROM 9/25*
This morning we got up at 7:30, got dressed, and ate breakfast. Then we had services and got the backpacks the company in charge of yam l’ yam was giving us for the trip. Then we started our hike (but not really- we just did a hike on the campground we were staying on- we start the actual hiking on sunday). We rested for about 2 hours at a water pool with tons of rocks for us to sit/sleep on and while we were there we also had lunch. The walk back to the campsite was much harder b/c we had to walk back up the 500 stairs we originally walked down! When we got back to the campsite we all felt so gross. So we changed, washed our faces, and bought ice cream from the store. On our way back to our area my friends and I saw some of our counselors talking to some Israelis and they had food so naturally we went over to them. The Israelis were really nice and offered us food. So of course we didn’t want to be rude and say no. then we had to get back to our area b/c we had group meetings. At our meeting we were given our subgroups for cooking and survival activities and all the stuff we needed to cook. Then we had some free time until all the girls in my group had to help cut veggies for dinner (we got lucky- the boys had to clean dishes). Then we had havdalah and had dinner. After that we relaxed for a bit and then had a campfire. After that it was an early “tents-in” b/c we have to get up early. Tomorrow we start the actual hike and lose a bathroom.
This morning we got up at 7:30, got dressed, and ate breakfast. Then we had services and got the backpacks the company in charge of yam l’ yam was giving us for the trip. Then we started our hike (but not really- we just did a hike on the campground we were staying on- we start the actual hiking on sunday). We rested for about 2 hours at a water pool with tons of rocks for us to sit/sleep on and while we were there we also had lunch. The walk back to the campsite was much harder b/c we had to walk back up the 500 stairs we originally walked down! When we got back to the campsite we all felt so gross. So we changed, washed our faces, and bought ice cream from the store. On our way back to our area my friends and I saw some of our counselors talking to some Israelis and they had food so naturally we went over to them. The Israelis were really nice and offered us food. So of course we didn’t want to be rude and say no. then we had to get back to our area b/c we had group meetings. At our meeting we were given our subgroups for cooking and survival activities and all the stuff we needed to cook. Then we had some free time until all the girls in my group had to help cut veggies for dinner (we got lucky- the boys had to clean dishes). Then we had havdalah and had dinner. After that we relaxed for a bit and then had a campfire. After that it was an early “tents-in” b/c we have to get up early. Tomorrow we start the actual hike and lose a bathroom.
And the journey begins...
*FROM 9/24*
This morning we got up, had breakfast, packed up our stuff, gave our host family their present, made sandwiches for the bus ride, and left for the bus stop. Then we got on the bus w/ everyone else from EIE and started Yam L’ Yam (sea to sea- the Kinneret to Mediterranean) Adventure. We met our guides, split up into our groups, made lunch and went on a water hike. I worked so hard not to get wet and was successful until one of the kids in my group decided to splash everyone. We also collected a bottle of water as a symbol of going from sea to sea. Then we got back on the bus and rode to the campsite b/c we had to be there before Shabbat. We got to the campsite to find it wasn’t in the middle of the woods but it was an actual campsite including water, a cooking area, bathrooms, and store (it was kind of like where we went for camp campouts). We had Shabbat services and then had dinner. After dinner we had “improv” night but basically we just did a bunch of bean skits. It was also one of our counselor’s b-days so we had a little party for him. Then we got in our tents and went to sleep.
This morning we got up, had breakfast, packed up our stuff, gave our host family their present, made sandwiches for the bus ride, and left for the bus stop. Then we got on the bus w/ everyone else from EIE and started Yam L’ Yam (sea to sea- the Kinneret to Mediterranean) Adventure. We met our guides, split up into our groups, made lunch and went on a water hike. I worked so hard not to get wet and was successful until one of the kids in my group decided to splash everyone. We also collected a bottle of water as a symbol of going from sea to sea. Then we got back on the bus and rode to the campsite b/c we had to be there before Shabbat. We got to the campsite to find it wasn’t in the middle of the woods but it was an actual campsite including water, a cooking area, bathrooms, and store (it was kind of like where we went for camp campouts). We had Shabbat services and then had dinner. After dinner we had “improv” night but basically we just did a bunch of bean skits. It was also one of our counselor’s b-days so we had a little party for him. Then we got in our tents and went to sleep.
Family Day
*FROM 9/23*
This morning we got to sleep in until 11 am it was wonderful! When we woke up we found Shiri and her mom playing backgammon so when they finished I played shiri (but she won ☹) For breakfast we had the dessert from the bbq b/c we missed eating it last night when we went to aroma. Then shiri and her parents taught us how to play mini-bridge so we played for a while (I got 2nd). After that we relaxed and then had lunch. For lunch we had left over kabobs, pita, and chicken/veggies/noodles with soy sauce. Like all the food our host family had given us it was really good! After lunch Shiri, Yael, and I played Israeli monopoly. But then we decided to make cookies or s’mores. We decided on s’mores because we couldn’t find the sugar, but we couldn’t really roast the marshmallows so we put them in the microwave. It was gross, but we ate it anyway. Then we got ready to the Tel Aviv harbor. We got there during sunset and the view was beautiful (don’t worry I took pictures. We walked around for a while and then Shiri’s friend Mor (who is joining us on Yam L’ Yam) came. Then we went to dinner at Max Brenner’s (which is basically a restaurant full of chocolate). The four girls (shiri, yael, mor, and I) ate separately from Shiri’s parents and brothers. We shared a chicken with mandarin sauce salad and schnitzel. Then for dessert we got this thing called Sharing which included chocolate founde, a chocolate egg roll, toffee banana, vanilla ice cream, an chocolate shot. It was amazing but I was so full afterwards. Then we went back to Shiri’s house and Mor slept over. I am so sad our home stay is over but I know we will hang out with shiri and her friends and family again (especially b/c we will see some of them on Sunday).
This morning we got to sleep in until 11 am it was wonderful! When we woke up we found Shiri and her mom playing backgammon so when they finished I played shiri (but she won ☹) For breakfast we had the dessert from the bbq b/c we missed eating it last night when we went to aroma. Then shiri and her parents taught us how to play mini-bridge so we played for a while (I got 2nd). After that we relaxed and then had lunch. For lunch we had left over kabobs, pita, and chicken/veggies/noodles with soy sauce. Like all the food our host family had given us it was really good! After lunch Shiri, Yael, and I played Israeli monopoly. But then we decided to make cookies or s’mores. We decided on s’mores because we couldn’t find the sugar, but we couldn’t really roast the marshmallows so we put them in the microwave. It was gross, but we ate it anyway. Then we got ready to the Tel Aviv harbor. We got there during sunset and the view was beautiful (don’t worry I took pictures. We walked around for a while and then Shiri’s friend Mor (who is joining us on Yam L’ Yam) came. Then we went to dinner at Max Brenner’s (which is basically a restaurant full of chocolate). The four girls (shiri, yael, mor, and I) ate separately from Shiri’s parents and brothers. We shared a chicken with mandarin sauce salad and schnitzel. Then for dessert we got this thing called Sharing which included chocolate founde, a chocolate egg roll, toffee banana, vanilla ice cream, an chocolate shot. It was amazing but I was so full afterwards. Then we went back to Shiri’s house and Mor slept over. I am so sad our home stay is over but I know we will hang out with shiri and her friends and family again (especially b/c we will see some of them on Sunday).
thank g-d for host families
*FROM 9/22*
As usual wake-up this morning was at 7:30, the only difference was that by 8 we not only had to be at breakfast but we had to be completely moved out of our rooms! During breakfast we also had to make sandwiches to take for our bus ride (so I made pb&j in pita –but at dinner I learned that Israelis apparently don’t eat pb&j). At 8:30 we a had a program about sukkot and at 10 we all boarded our purple bus to be dropped off with our host families. At around 12:30 we got to the last stop, my stop, and Yael and I were picked up by our host mom and daughter (who were wonderful). The daughter, Shiri, and her friends are going to be joining us on Yam L’ Yam so it was nice to be able to meet them before they joined us on Sunday. When we got to their house (they live in Tel Mond- about 30 min from Tel Aviv) we had lunch. It was our first home cooked meal in a month and it was great! We had Couscous, meatballs, and veggies. After that we relaxed and got to know Shiri and her family. Then Shiri took us to meet some of her friends from the scouts (so of course Yael and I were excited-not only cause they were Israeli teens but b/c they were Israeli scouts!). Her friends were really nice and it was cool to actually talk to Israeli teens and see the similarities and differences between us and them. Around 5:45 we went back to our host home and helped our host family set up for the BBQ we were having that night (which obviously we were excited for b/c well it was real meat!). We also watched an American Show called “Wipeout” that is really popular in Israel but I have never heard off (but it was really funny). Around 7 their family friends came over for the bbq. The food was sooo good. There were hamburgers, chicken, kabobs, rice with pine-nutish things, challah, homemade baked French fries, and so much more! Both Yael and I ate so much! Then Shiri, Yael, and I went to aroma (which is like out starbucks just a lot better) and met up with some of the other EIE girls and their host girls who were also going on Yam L’ Yam with us. Another boy and girl who were also going on the trip with us came too. They are all so nice and spoke English with us most of the time. You could barely tell the difference between the Americans and Israelis. (incase you were wondering I got a hot choclate it was soo good!) Around 11:45 we went back to our house , relaxed, showered, and went to bed.
Overall it was a pretty spectacular day. Our host family is great and is exactly what Yael and I were hoping for (I mean a bbq-it doesn’t get any better). Plus Shiri and her friend are really cool (we are already fb friends) and they have all said we should come back on one off our off weekends.
As usual wake-up this morning was at 7:30, the only difference was that by 8 we not only had to be at breakfast but we had to be completely moved out of our rooms! During breakfast we also had to make sandwiches to take for our bus ride (so I made pb&j in pita –but at dinner I learned that Israelis apparently don’t eat pb&j). At 8:30 we a had a program about sukkot and at 10 we all boarded our purple bus to be dropped off with our host families. At around 12:30 we got to the last stop, my stop, and Yael and I were picked up by our host mom and daughter (who were wonderful). The daughter, Shiri, and her friends are going to be joining us on Yam L’ Yam so it was nice to be able to meet them before they joined us on Sunday. When we got to their house (they live in Tel Mond- about 30 min from Tel Aviv) we had lunch. It was our first home cooked meal in a month and it was great! We had Couscous, meatballs, and veggies. After that we relaxed and got to know Shiri and her family. Then Shiri took us to meet some of her friends from the scouts (so of course Yael and I were excited-not only cause they were Israeli teens but b/c they were Israeli scouts!). Her friends were really nice and it was cool to actually talk to Israeli teens and see the similarities and differences between us and them. Around 5:45 we went back to our host home and helped our host family set up for the BBQ we were having that night (which obviously we were excited for b/c well it was real meat!). We also watched an American Show called “Wipeout” that is really popular in Israel but I have never heard off (but it was really funny). Around 7 their family friends came over for the bbq. The food was sooo good. There were hamburgers, chicken, kabobs, rice with pine-nutish things, challah, homemade baked French fries, and so much more! Both Yael and I ate so much! Then Shiri, Yael, and I went to aroma (which is like out starbucks just a lot better) and met up with some of the other EIE girls and their host girls who were also going on Yam L’ Yam with us. Another boy and girl who were also going on the trip with us came too. They are all so nice and spoke English with us most of the time. You could barely tell the difference between the Americans and Israelis. (incase you were wondering I got a hot choclate it was soo good!) Around 11:45 we went back to our house , relaxed, showered, and went to bed.
Overall it was a pretty spectacular day. Our host family is great and is exactly what Yael and I were hoping for (I mean a bbq-it doesn’t get any better). Plus Shiri and her friend are really cool (we are already fb friends) and they have all said we should come back on one off our off weekends.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
jewish history test and packing up (again)
Today was a little different. We still had our regular schedule but what we did in classes was different. For the 2nd half of Hebrew we went to the Belmont café and ordered food in Hebrew. Most of my class got ice coffee but I brought my water with me so I wouldn’t have to (plus I don’t like ice coffee). But 3 of my friends and I did split a waffle with chocolate sauce. Then we had our 3 hour long jewish history test. Everyone was freaking out about the test but I actually thought I was well prepared and the test its self wasn’t that bad. I finished the timeline, fill in the blanks, short answers, essay, extra credit, and unit evaluation with time to spare so I went to lunch. Then I had my regular classes. We got out of math early b/c my teacher didn’t want to teach something new with us leaving for so long. So I started packing and went to dinner. Then we had announcements and packing time.
Now I guess I will write in present tense. Cause I am currently packing and even though curfew isn’t until 11:30 my computer has to be in storage by 9:30. So I will be posting this even though the day won’t be over. So I will predict what else I will be doing once I finish packing. Since it is my last night with my roommates were are going to spend one last night eating together and bonding. I am kinda scared for the next 9 days b/c I have no idea what to expect. But I will report back when I get back to Tzuba next wed. with my writing from everyday.
Now I guess I will write in present tense. Cause I am currently packing and even though curfew isn’t until 11:30 my computer has to be in storage by 9:30. So I will be posting this even though the day won’t be over. So I will predict what else I will be doing once I finish packing. Since it is my last night with my roommates were are going to spend one last night eating together and bonding. I am kinda scared for the next 9 days b/c I have no idea what to expect. But I will report back when I get back to Tzuba next wed. with my writing from everyday.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Our first big study night!
Like yesterday today was a normal school day. Well kinda. We had Hebrew class and then Jewish history but the first half of Jewish history all the classes were together for a “Babylonian bash”. It really wasn’t that exciting. Then for the 2nd half of class we had review for our big test tomorrow. After that I had lunch and then started my general studies classes. In econ. I handed in my project and my teacher quickly looked over it and said it looked very detailed. Then I had physics, English, and math, which were just like any other class period. At announcements we were given on packing list b/c tomorrow night we have to move out and be ready for 2 days at a host home and 6 days hiking. But b/c of the Jewish history test and other homework I didn’t pack. However I did go for a walk around the kibbutz for a half hour b/c my friend and I are annoyed that we haven’t gotten a ton of exercise (but after this weekend I don’t think we will be saying that as much). Sorry that this is so short but I have to go study!
I don’t know the next time I will be able to post but I will be writing everyday and will type it up and post it all when I get back to Tzuba next wed.
I don’t know the next time I will be able to post but I will be writing everyday and will type it up and post it all when I get back to Tzuba next wed.
Let's skype
*FROM 9/19*
Today was a regular school day. As usual we got up went to breakfast (but I bought bananas before breakfast) and then went to Hebrew class. Today in Hebrew we played “coffee shop” only there was real food involved. We acted like the waiters and waitresses and made each other coffee and tea (or if your me you asked for a glass of milk). Then our teacher gave us brownies-they were really good. Then in Jewish history we went over the format of our test that is on Tuesday. After a little review we learned the last bit of information we need to know for our test. Then I went to lunch and all my general studies classes. They were nothing special. Then during my off period I tried to skype with Noah and Hannah but the timing didn’t work out as well as we had hoped ☹. My friend and I ended up spending the rest of our off period attempting to wash our clothes in the bathtub. Eventually we decided to let them sit and went to dinner. Then after dinner we finished washing them. After dinner/announcements I also got to skype with mommy. It was nice to be able to not talk through e-mail for once. Then I worked on my homework and am still currently working on it. So since there is really nothing else left to say I am going to go work on it. Goodnight.
P.S. I am totally jealous of everyone at school, they get to wear PJs to school tomorrow.
Let's skype
Today was a regular school day. As usual we got up went to breakfast (but I bought bananas before breakfast) and then went to Hebrew class. Today in Hebrew we played “coffee shop” only there was real food involved. We acted like the waiters and waitresses and made each other coffee and tea (or if your me you asked for a glass of milk). Then our teacher gave us brownies-they were really good. Then in Jewish history we went over the format of our test that is on Tuesday. After a little review we learned the last bit of information we need to know for our test. Then I went to lunch and all my general studies classes. They were nothing special. Then during my off period I tried to skype with Noah and Hannah but the timing didn’t work out as well as we had hoped ☹. My friend and I ended up spending the rest of our off period attempting to wash our clothes in the bathtub. Eventually we decided to let them sit and went to dinner. Then after dinner we finished washing them. After dinner/announcements I also got to skype with mommy. It was nice to be able to not talk through e-mail for once. Then I worked on my homework and am still currently working on it. So since there is really nothing else left to say I am going to go work on it. Goodnight.
P.S. I am totally jealous of everyone at school, they get to wear PJs to school tomorrow.
Let's skype
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Observing Services
We were given multiple choices for services this morning, an Ashkenazi orthodox synagogue, a Sephardic orthodox synagogue, a conservation synagogue, the Kotel, or Hebrew Union College. I choose the Sephardic orthodox synagogue because when I talked to mom last night she told me to experience something that I wouldn’t be able to experience at home. The temple its self was unlike anything I have ever seen. It was painted in purples, blue and turquoise. The ceiling had stars painted on it and the upper part of the walls had clouds painted on them. The chandelier had pieces of colored glass in pinks, purples, greens, blues, and oranges all over it. The room was also full of windows and it was very airy and refreshing. The bima was in the middle of the men’s section, so that they were all surrounding it. The women had a box on the left side, a little above the men’s section and another box above the first one. The service its self didn’t feel very serious and solemn like it would have at home but it was interesting to observe other people praying. The men acted like everyone at Grammy and poppy’s(Hansen) temple in the way that they all had side conversations going on. Before we went to the temple we were told that they were very focused on community. The community aspect wasn’t very evident between both men and women b/c the service was mostly for the men, but when the men were all together it was very easy to see they were all on the same page. As soon as one of them would get louder all of a sudden all of them were singing and chanting loudly. It was also kind of funny to watch because the rabbi would chant something and then you would hear a lot of rambling that sounded like the chant but not really. I couldn’t really understand what was going on so I learned some vocab words that I brought with me. But overall the service was something different and cool. At 3 we had a torah study with our principal on Jonah (the one from Jonah and the whale). It was pretty interesting but no one really wanted to be there cause we all had to wake up from our naps. Then we were given 4 choices for the closing service, The Ashkenazi orthodox synagogue, Sephardic orthodox synagogue, conservation synagogue, or HUC. While I know that I am supposed to experience new things and wanted to go to the Ashkenazi orthodox synagogue also but this morning didn’t feel like Yom Kippur. So I picked HUC b/c it is a reform American service and I wanted to feel like I had actually participated in the holiday. It was nice having a service that was closer to being at services at home. After the service we grabbed some apple juice and challah (break-fast #1-I was sooo happy to have food) and went back to the hotel for a 2nd break-fast. The hotel had cakes so I had a few small pieces of honey cake and some apple pie. As we were walking back from HUC cars started to get back on the road and we couldn’t walk in the street anymore (I so wish there was a day in America where everything was silent and no one drove anywhere and we could walk in the middle of the street without the fear of being hit). Then we packed up our stuff and got on the bus. When we got back to tzuba we were told to put our stuff in our rooms and go to dinner, but they forgot to mention that none our keys worked so we just left all of our stuff sitting outside our door. Then we went to the dinning hall expecting meat and found out it was a dairy meal ☹ ) but I still ate and felt sick after. Then I got my key fixed, talked to mommy, talked to grammy and poppy, and did homework. Currently as I am writing this, I am attempting to get homework done and my room has apparently become the chill homework room that all my friends come to. I feel so popular!
walking through the streets
*FROM 9/17*
This morning I got up early and went to the optional service that a fellow eie student was leading. Then I went to breakfast and finished packing for our overnight in Jerusalem. We got on the bus and went to straight to our hotel, which was next to the YMCA and across from the King David Hotel and Hebrew Union College. After we dropped our stuff off we walked to Ben Yehuda Street and had 2 hours to walk around, shop, and eat. My friends and I got falafel and then ice cream (but I got yogurt with kiwi, granola, and chocolate). We also went into some stores and I bought a really pretty Mezuzah. After that we went back to the hotel and after much confusion got our room assignments (when we dropped off our stuff we put it in a closet in the lobby b/c our rooms weren’t ready). Then we had about 45 minutes to relax and get ready for services. When we went down stairs at 3:30 we had dinner. There wasn’t really too much to eat but I knew I had to b/c I wouldn’t really be eating for another 25/26 hours. After we ate we had some more free time until 4:45 when we had to be down stairs for our last meal (it was granola bars). After our “last meal” we walked over to HUC (Hebrew Union College) for services. The room services were in had such a pretty view of the surrounding area. I liked the fact that because HUC is not only reform but is also American I was able to understand what was going on. Plus the service had the added benefit of listening to the rabbinic and cantorial students who will one day perhaps be a rabbi in anyone of our synagogues. After services we went back to the hotel to change so that we could go walk around Jerusalem for a while. We were given 2 hours to just walk around the streets and relax. Because it is Yom Kippur and Shabbat there were no cars except for police on the roads and everything was closed. So we were able to walk in the middle of the streets and just look around. My friend and I decided it was getting too crowded on the streets though so instead we want back to the hotel and worked on homework. That’s about it. Tomorrow is going to be a busy service and no food filled day.
p.s. incase you were wondering as of today I have been 16 for 3 months! Woohoo!
This morning I got up early and went to the optional service that a fellow eie student was leading. Then I went to breakfast and finished packing for our overnight in Jerusalem. We got on the bus and went to straight to our hotel, which was next to the YMCA and across from the King David Hotel and Hebrew Union College. After we dropped our stuff off we walked to Ben Yehuda Street and had 2 hours to walk around, shop, and eat. My friends and I got falafel and then ice cream (but I got yogurt with kiwi, granola, and chocolate). We also went into some stores and I bought a really pretty Mezuzah. After that we went back to the hotel and after much confusion got our room assignments (when we dropped off our stuff we put it in a closet in the lobby b/c our rooms weren’t ready). Then we had about 45 minutes to relax and get ready for services. When we went down stairs at 3:30 we had dinner. There wasn’t really too much to eat but I knew I had to b/c I wouldn’t really be eating for another 25/26 hours. After we ate we had some more free time until 4:45 when we had to be down stairs for our last meal (it was granola bars). After our “last meal” we walked over to HUC (Hebrew Union College) for services. The room services were in had such a pretty view of the surrounding area. I liked the fact that because HUC is not only reform but is also American I was able to understand what was going on. Plus the service had the added benefit of listening to the rabbinic and cantorial students who will one day perhaps be a rabbi in anyone of our synagogues. After services we went back to the hotel to change so that we could go walk around Jerusalem for a while. We were given 2 hours to just walk around the streets and relax. Because it is Yom Kippur and Shabbat there were no cars except for police on the roads and everything was closed. So we were able to walk in the middle of the streets and just look around. My friend and I decided it was getting too crowded on the streets though so instead we want back to the hotel and worked on homework. That’s about it. Tomorrow is going to be a busy service and no food filled day.
p.s. incase you were wondering as of today I have been 16 for 3 months! Woohoo!
Thursday, September 16, 2010
stress free night
Today was a very relaxed day. We had Hebrew and then instead of Jewish studies in our classrooms we had a tiyul on the kibbutz. We went to the old burial caves on the kibbutz from when it was an ancient civilization. It was cool but a little weird. We spent a good hour and half outside which was longer than I expected, so I didn’t put sunscreen on and what do you know I now have a nice tan/sunburn. My class wasn’t outside as much as the other 2 classes though. This is because my teacher wasn’t here today so our vice principal (David Solomon) was watching our class. But b/c he had to work with the other teachers too, he sent my class back to our rooms for a half hour break around 12. When we went back to class at 12:30 (it was actually a little later) we just had a 10 min conversation on yom kippur and then we had more free time. So I went to lunch and then had an entire hour free. Then I had my regular classes. Nothing to extraordinary happened in any of them. Then I had a free period and went to dinner. After dinner we had announcements and small yom kippur program with our principal in preparation for our trip to Jerusalem for the holiday. Luckily though we don’t have to move out of our rooms for this overnight. Then we had some free time. I packed, took out all the vocab flash cards in the back of my sat prep book so I have something to do during services (we were told to bring books or something of the sort), and just relaxed with my friends. It was nice to not stress out over anything even though I have homework to do over the holiday. Ordering pizza at night has become a big thing so my friends and I just went around for a while asking for pizza (luckily people are nice and we were able to have some). My friend also downloaded the season premier of gossip girl so we watched it and it was SOOOO good!!!!!! That’s basically it for today. But now I have to finish packing and go to bed. Hope everyone has a good fast. I will post tomorrow night if I get internet at the hotel but I don’t think I will so I will post when I get back to tzuba on sat. night.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Energy and Israeli pudding
Hi there! Right now I have a ton of energy (but I’ll get to that later). Today was a regular school day. Hebrew was good, we played a game and studied for our test tomorrow. In Jewish history we talked about King Saul and his actions that lost his family the kingship. General studies were good today. In econ. We got a project that is due next week and it sounds challenging yet fun. In physics we got our tests back and I didn’t fail yay! Then we learned about acceleration. In English we read an article about a father and son reuniting after 27 years apart and got an assignment about it. In math we started calculus! We started learning about limits, which I knew a little about b/c we did a little with them last year. We also got our tests back and I got an A! then I had my off period and to honest I don’t really remember what I did during it. I know I talked to mom and did math but I don’t see how that took an hour but oh well. Then I went to dinner and had SAT English prep. It went pretty well and my teacher told us some helpful hints. Then I went to the Belmont with sam and roey to write our mar update letter. It took forever b/c the three of us have some serious concentration issues. Plus there were other people there so we got of track quite a bit. But eventually we got it done. Afterwards though things got crazy. Spending an hour straight with roey, sam, and my friend Kendra just gives you a boost of energy (plus there might have been some chocolate pudding involved for some more energy (but in Israel it is more like creamy chocolate soup that you drink from the container b/c we don’t have spoons)). After that I went back to my room and my roommates and I had some bonding time. But now it is bedtime. Goodnight
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Tunnels full of water in the dark and bus blessings?
Last night apparently my room was given the wrong wake up information so we woke up a half hour early. But it was ok. We had a nice quiet breakfast followed by some extra homework time. Then we got on the bus and headed out to our full day tiyul. In the morning we went to a sight where you could see all of the city of David and surrounding areas. Our over all goal for the day was to decipher why David choose Jerusalem as the center of his kingdom. We also talked about how he ended up being king instead of king Saul’s sons. (He killed them). Then we went to lunch in the old city and had about an hour to eat and walk around. I had some falafel and an apple. Then we went into The City of David. We discussed all the reasons and advantages of the placement of the city and decided that the most important reason was that the city was the only fresh water supply in the surrounding area. Because of that we then went on a tour of the water tunnels and pool. We spent about an hour walking through the tunnels (which were full of water) in the dark (we had flash lights but decided it was more fun to not use them). By the time we were out of the tunnels we had apparently dropped 100 meters but it did not feel like that at all! Then we realized we had to hike all the way back up. It was the exercise I have been missing. By the time all 3 classes finished it was 5 pm and we got back on the bus and headed back to Tzuba. We had free time to shower and eat dinner and then at 7 we split up by gender for a program talking about sex and such. It was the same type of thing I did in health class (communication, uncomfortable situations, etc.) not really about anything sexual. Then we finally had time to do homework. Now I am going to bed b/c I am super tired.
p.s. today I also learned that in Israel the buses (on their outer screen where the final destination of the bus is listed) also list a blessing for the people that read the sign and ride the bus. In other words, today I was blessed by a bus.
p.s. today I also learned that in Israel the buses (on their outer screen where the final destination of the bus is listed) also list a blessing for the people that read the sign and ride the bus. In other words, today I was blessed by a bus.
Monday, September 13, 2010
The land of Israel
This morning we woke up early so we could leave promptly at 7:30 for our tiyul. We walked to our destination in which we learned about eretz yisrael(the land of israel). The information we learned was pretty interesting(terrace farming, the 7 main products the we originally grew, agricultural styles, etc) and my group’s presentation of our chapter of judges was pitiful. But the best part of the trip was spelunking through the water wells. After our 5 and half hour tiyul we went back to Tzuba for general studies classes. Luckily I have first period lunch so I got to shower, study for math, edit my essay (with the help of Noa- one of our madrachim), sort my clothes for laundry and eat lunch. Then I went to class. Econ. Is still basic review, which is getting kinda old. I want to learn about present day economics and have discussions and look at the state of the economy, not learn about bartering and such. Then I had physics. We took a test I don’t think I did very well b/c I didn’t really understand the information. When we learned it our teacher drew 2 graphs and told us to learn them, that’s about it. So I talked to him after class and he is going to go over it again. But we both agreed the book we use in class isn’t good. So I am going to ask david (the assistant principal) if I can take one of the other ones from the library to help me learn the information. Then I went to English and since we just did a rhetorical essay on the NY times article we are now doing an argumentative article. Then I went to math and took a test. I want to say I feel like I did a good job but I have no idea and thanks to my past performance in math I am scared to find out how I did. Then I had an off period in which I did nothing but put pictures on facebook and by a show on itunes. It was wonderful (although inside I was freaking out about not doing work- but I needed a little stress free time). Then I went to dinner and announcements. After that I went to study hall to take a practice US History SAT2. I just got back to my room from that and skyped with Keri for a few minutes. Now I am going to work on homework and go to bed b/c we have a full day tiyul tomorrow and a program tomorrow night so I want to get all the work I can done tonight.
Also, yesterday I mentioned how my Hebrew teacher’s dad (rabbi haberman) was a rabbi at WHC. Well guess what, apparently he married grammy and poppy bill too! How weird is that?!
Also, yesterday I mentioned how my Hebrew teacher’s dad (rabbi haberman) was a rabbi at WHC. Well guess what, apparently he married grammy and poppy bill too! How weird is that?!
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Too much stress!
This morning we woke up and started a regular day of classes. That is Hebrew, Jewish Studies, and then general studies. I got to Hebrew a few minutes early and talked to my teacher for a while and I learned that her father was a Rabbi at Washington Hebrew! His name is Rabbi Haberman and he is leading a torah study on Yom Kippur called Three Jewish Wisdom Rules to Live By. In Jewish History class we talked about Moshe and then Ten Commandments. General studies today were ok. In econ. We had a good discussion but I feel like he keeps going over and over the same information. In physics we went over some practice problems b/c we have a quiz tomorrow. In English we got some grades back and read a NY times article. My grades on the 4 assignments we got back were fairly good (low A and Bs). However if they had been graded at home they probably would be getting Cs. Then I went to math and today was review day for our test tomorrow but our teacher doesn’t do structured review days. Instead he says if u have a question stay if you don’t feel free to leave. I had a question so I stayed but then no one had anything to say so he let us go. It is stuff like that, that really makes me miss Whitman. Structure doesn’t exist here. The first day of school there was no syllabus given out, my teachers never went over their testing style, there is no structure to classes, they don’t even tell you the topic you are learning that day! I miss my stressful structured school! And while vacation was nice and I felt like this year was going to be much more relaxed once we got back to school today it hit me that it isn’t going to be. The stress is back! I don’t feel like I will be able to learn everything I need to for Whitman by the time I leave and our general studies classes are constantly pushed aside b/c of trips. Most kids really like not having general studies but I need them!
After general studies I spent my free period attempting to send the new member packet for Mar to the other MSacs so they could edit it, but I soon realized a big problem, the file was way to big for an e-mail. SO I had to go through and delete stuff here and there to get it down to the right size. Eventually I got it down to a good size and after SAT prep sent it from Sam’s computer b/c it didn’t want to send on mine.
After my free period I rushed through dinner so I could try to get work done before SAT prep but it didn’t work out well. By the time I got back to my room I had to go to announcements and then straight to SAT Math Prep. SAT went well, we did a practice test and went over our answers. After class I went to the Belmont lobby to work on a group project we got today and that is due tomorrow for Jewish History. It was the most obnoxious project! Then I had to race back to my room to write an English essay and attempt to work on other homework. I was able to finish the essay and will finish everything else during lunch tomorrow (wish me luck).
I hope the WHECTY pool party was fun for those of you in WHECTY reading this who went. I am sorry I missed it. Also I hope the board meeting tomorrow is fun (Keri if there is Mexican please eat it for me even if you don’t want too)
After general studies I spent my free period attempting to send the new member packet for Mar to the other MSacs so they could edit it, but I soon realized a big problem, the file was way to big for an e-mail. SO I had to go through and delete stuff here and there to get it down to the right size. Eventually I got it down to a good size and after SAT prep sent it from Sam’s computer b/c it didn’t want to send on mine.
After my free period I rushed through dinner so I could try to get work done before SAT prep but it didn’t work out well. By the time I got back to my room I had to go to announcements and then straight to SAT Math Prep. SAT went well, we did a practice test and went over our answers. After class I went to the Belmont lobby to work on a group project we got today and that is due tomorrow for Jewish History. It was the most obnoxious project! Then I had to race back to my room to write an English essay and attempt to work on other homework. I was able to finish the essay and will finish everything else during lunch tomorrow (wish me luck).
I hope the WHECTY pool party was fun for those of you in WHECTY reading this who went. I am sorry I missed it. Also I hope the board meeting tomorrow is fun (Keri if there is Mexican please eat it for me even if you don’t want too)
Saturday, September 11, 2010
I missed my roomies
Today was a lets do nothing day. We woke up at 10:50 and had Shabbat morning services. After that we had lunch and then free time until Havdalah at 5. After havdalah we got on the bus to start our journey back north to Tzuba. We stoped after about 3 hours for dinner. I got a pesto, chicken, and mozzarella sandwich-it was really good. Then when we got back to Tzuba we had to empty out the library of everyone’s stuff before we could get our keys. It took forever! But eventually it got done and we moved into our rooms. My roommates and I decided that even after living with each other we hadn’t gotten to really know each other. So we just had a bonding sesh to telling our life stories. Its so nice to be back in my room with my roommates (not to say that I didn’t like the girls I roomed with on “vacation” but I missed my roomies.
p.s. we change our clocks tonight. yay 6 hour time difference now!
p.s. we change our clocks tonight. yay 6 hour time difference now!
Party in the Sand!
*FROM SEPTEMBER 10th*
It’s amazing how many things have happened in Israel since its creation in 1948. The technology here is amazing! Plus while the political world can’t seem to find peace between Israel and Jordan the farmers on Kibbutz Yahel have been growing their crops right next to the Jordan boarder for over 30 years. The man telling us about the area (who’s name is Ron Bernstein-he knows Rabbi Lustig) told us a story about how he helped peace in the Middle East. He farms Pamello (spelling?) and one day he got to the farm and IDF soldiers where there b/c the farm is basically the border, and they said that there were foot prints from the Jordanian boarder across the farm to get some fruit. Ron looked at them has said it is so hot out here and if I saw fruit I would be running to get it. After that he gave the soldiers pamello and they never spoke of it again. He then proceeded to put a box of pamello in the corner of the field for Israeli and Jordanian Soldiers. He eventually had to stop b/c someone told him he couldn’t put fruit out there anymore but one day he and friend were out in the field and they drove over that way and saw a bunch of Jordanian soldiers who looked like they could really use some fruit. So he and the friend threw fruit over the boarder for the soldiers. He also told us that while he was out in the corner if the field where he used to have the box of fruit, he saw a white car on the Jordan side of the boarder. Next thing you now the governor of that area of Jordan was getting out of the car to talk to him and thank him for being so kind. This happened during Hanukkah and the men decided they would come back the next day with their families and celebrate together. The next day both men brought their families and even though they were on different sides of the boarder they celebrated together.
It is so puzzling why people can’t be like all the time. Actaully, Kibbutz Yahel’s fields are basically in Jordan. In the 90s the boarder was changed as a way of settling peace with Jordan. Kibbutz Yahel was ready to give up all their farmland so that their kids would be able to know peace. However it was settled that the boarder would go around the fields. All this happened and yet the rest of the country is in such a mess with Arab relations.
Anyway before I heard any of those stories I woke up at 6:30 to go play in sand dunes. The view was so pretty! And the sand was so soft! We spent a few hours eating breakfast on top of the dunes and just playing around.
After we got back from the tour we had free time so I went to my friends room. We watched harry potter and then decided to nap. The 2nd we were falling asleep people came in the room and we all started talking. Then hadas came in and the 7 girls in the room plus hadas had a heart to heart for a good 2 and half hours. It was wonderful. Then we had Friday night services, dinner, and got ready to go to eliat. We had a 45 min. bus ride and then had about and hour and half to walk around. My friends and I got some yogurt and then just sat and talked. We just got back and I am so exhausted and even though we have an hour until curfew I am going to bed.
p.s. sorry I didn’t post this on the day it happened. Trying to get internet would take too long.
It’s amazing how many things have happened in Israel since its creation in 1948. The technology here is amazing! Plus while the political world can’t seem to find peace between Israel and Jordan the farmers on Kibbutz Yahel have been growing their crops right next to the Jordan boarder for over 30 years. The man telling us about the area (who’s name is Ron Bernstein-he knows Rabbi Lustig) told us a story about how he helped peace in the Middle East. He farms Pamello (spelling?) and one day he got to the farm and IDF soldiers where there b/c the farm is basically the border, and they said that there were foot prints from the Jordanian boarder across the farm to get some fruit. Ron looked at them has said it is so hot out here and if I saw fruit I would be running to get it. After that he gave the soldiers pamello and they never spoke of it again. He then proceeded to put a box of pamello in the corner of the field for Israeli and Jordanian Soldiers. He eventually had to stop b/c someone told him he couldn’t put fruit out there anymore but one day he and friend were out in the field and they drove over that way and saw a bunch of Jordanian soldiers who looked like they could really use some fruit. So he and the friend threw fruit over the boarder for the soldiers. He also told us that while he was out in the corner if the field where he used to have the box of fruit, he saw a white car on the Jordan side of the boarder. Next thing you now the governor of that area of Jordan was getting out of the car to talk to him and thank him for being so kind. This happened during Hanukkah and the men decided they would come back the next day with their families and celebrate together. The next day both men brought their families and even though they were on different sides of the boarder they celebrated together.
It is so puzzling why people can’t be like all the time. Actaully, Kibbutz Yahel’s fields are basically in Jordan. In the 90s the boarder was changed as a way of settling peace with Jordan. Kibbutz Yahel was ready to give up all their farmland so that their kids would be able to know peace. However it was settled that the boarder would go around the fields. All this happened and yet the rest of the country is in such a mess with Arab relations.
Anyway before I heard any of those stories I woke up at 6:30 to go play in sand dunes. The view was so pretty! And the sand was so soft! We spent a few hours eating breakfast on top of the dunes and just playing around.
After we got back from the tour we had free time so I went to my friends room. We watched harry potter and then decided to nap. The 2nd we were falling asleep people came in the room and we all started talking. Then hadas came in and the 7 girls in the room plus hadas had a heart to heart for a good 2 and half hours. It was wonderful. Then we had Friday night services, dinner, and got ready to go to eliat. We had a 45 min. bus ride and then had about and hour and half to walk around. My friends and I got some yogurt and then just sat and talked. We just got back and I am so exhausted and even though we have an hour until curfew I am going to bed.
p.s. sorry I didn’t post this on the day it happened. Trying to get internet would take too long.
Bad End of the Year to a Good Start
*FROM SEPTEMBER 9TH*
Everyone assumes that Israel is an extremely religious place. Well this morning I learned that that assumption isn’t really true. Seeing as today is Rosh Hashana we went to services this morning. (I never really described services last night so I guess I will talk about them now too). The room for services fits 100 people for services. Last night no one knew what to expect. We all figured its Erev Rosh Hashana people will be dressed nice and it will be like services at home. WRONG. People showed up in flip-flops, jeans, and t-shirts! This morning the same thing happened! Plus there was this one kid who brought his shofar and talked and played with it the entire service! If I were at home no one would have really noticed b/c this kid probably would have been on the balcony floor but here we were all together and that kid was annoying us all. Since 98% of the service was in Hebrew none of us knew what was going on most of the time, giving us a lot of time to think. I couldn’t help and think about everything I was missing at home. The Rabbis saying Aveinu Malkeinu in really loud and strong voices, Rabbi Lustig lifting the torah, singing Lechi Lach, the family service story. The Rabbis leading our service were nowhere as meaningful and powerful as the Rabbis at WHC. Plus even though there were 100 of us at this service it still did not feel as warm, close, and inviting as High Holiday Services at home. Plus the fact that I was wearing a black high waisted skirt, belt, and dark purple shirt with flip-flops did not feel right, but my heels weren’t right for the occasion here either. If I had been at home I would have had my talit, purse, the same outfit I wore this morning, plus heels and I would have felt way more dressed for the Occasion. Also, the boy who was blowing the shofar was TERRIBLE! He sounded like he was just spitting into the thing. At home there were contests to see who could hold the sound the longest and the sounds are so perfect. I guess I just expected today to be much more holy because I am in Israel, but the truth is I feel more holy and like I am actually getting something out of the service when I am at home.
Well I wrote that earlier today during free time. Since then a lot has happened. It’s a new year and I could not be happier. This afternoon was so tough and my friend and I felt so homesick/temple sick and then after dinner I got to talk to one of my best friends from home thanks to mommy. It was the start to a new year I needed (thank you rbw). After that we were told to put on tevas and clothes we didn’t mind getting dirty. Next thing you know we are walking off the kibbutz property into the Negev Desert. We spent a good half hour in silence just looking out into the hills and stars. I haven’t felt so relaxed and peaceful since the last morning I spent at camp watching the sunrise. I can honestly say it has finally hit me that I am here in Israel. I could not have asked for a better start to the New Year. When I sat up I felt so relaxed and sat criss-cross applesauce with back straight up, just like I would sit in dance class. I don’t think I have sat up perfectly straight like that since my first dance class last year. For the rest of the night I stood up perfectly straight and I only wish I could be that relaxed for the rest of my life to stand and sit with my back always straight. When we got back to the kibbutz I had a heart to heart with one of our madrachim (counselors). It was so nice to have someone to talk to about everything that I have gone through in the last year. Now I am sitting on my room with my 2 roommates for the next 2 nights and I feel like a huge burden has been lifted off my shoulders. I think it is going to be a good year.
Everyone assumes that Israel is an extremely religious place. Well this morning I learned that that assumption isn’t really true. Seeing as today is Rosh Hashana we went to services this morning. (I never really described services last night so I guess I will talk about them now too). The room for services fits 100 people for services. Last night no one knew what to expect. We all figured its Erev Rosh Hashana people will be dressed nice and it will be like services at home. WRONG. People showed up in flip-flops, jeans, and t-shirts! This morning the same thing happened! Plus there was this one kid who brought his shofar and talked and played with it the entire service! If I were at home no one would have really noticed b/c this kid probably would have been on the balcony floor but here we were all together and that kid was annoying us all. Since 98% of the service was in Hebrew none of us knew what was going on most of the time, giving us a lot of time to think. I couldn’t help and think about everything I was missing at home. The Rabbis saying Aveinu Malkeinu in really loud and strong voices, Rabbi Lustig lifting the torah, singing Lechi Lach, the family service story. The Rabbis leading our service were nowhere as meaningful and powerful as the Rabbis at WHC. Plus even though there were 100 of us at this service it still did not feel as warm, close, and inviting as High Holiday Services at home. Plus the fact that I was wearing a black high waisted skirt, belt, and dark purple shirt with flip-flops did not feel right, but my heels weren’t right for the occasion here either. If I had been at home I would have had my talit, purse, the same outfit I wore this morning, plus heels and I would have felt way more dressed for the Occasion. Also, the boy who was blowing the shofar was TERRIBLE! He sounded like he was just spitting into the thing. At home there were contests to see who could hold the sound the longest and the sounds are so perfect. I guess I just expected today to be much more holy because I am in Israel, but the truth is I feel more holy and like I am actually getting something out of the service when I am at home.
Well I wrote that earlier today during free time. Since then a lot has happened. It’s a new year and I could not be happier. This afternoon was so tough and my friend and I felt so homesick/temple sick and then after dinner I got to talk to one of my best friends from home thanks to mommy. It was the start to a new year I needed (thank you rbw). After that we were told to put on tevas and clothes we didn’t mind getting dirty. Next thing you know we are walking off the kibbutz property into the Negev Desert. We spent a good half hour in silence just looking out into the hills and stars. I haven’t felt so relaxed and peaceful since the last morning I spent at camp watching the sunrise. I can honestly say it has finally hit me that I am here in Israel. I could not have asked for a better start to the New Year. When I sat up I felt so relaxed and sat criss-cross applesauce with back straight up, just like I would sit in dance class. I don’t think I have sat up perfectly straight like that since my first dance class last year. For the rest of the night I stood up perfectly straight and I only wish I could be that relaxed for the rest of my life to stand and sit with my back always straight. When we got back to the kibbutz I had a heart to heart with one of our madrachim (counselors). It was so nice to have someone to talk to about everything that I have gone through in the last year. Now I am sitting on my room with my 2 roommates for the next 2 nights and I feel like a huge burden has been lifted off my shoulders. I think it is going to be a good year.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
WooHoo internet in the south!
I guess while I am waiting to get Internet it would be a good use of my time to write my update for today. This morning we woke up and moved out of our rooms. Once the head of our room was out we weren’t allowed back in. Then we had breakfast and free time. During free time I met Grammy’s distant cousin and his kids b/c they go to school on the kibbutz. After that we had a Rosh Hashana program and then got on the bus to begin our 4 hour bus ride (woohoo) The bus ride wasn’t actually that bad. My friend Yael and I watched Fame on my computer. In the middle of the ride we stopped for lunch at a mall. My lunch was soo good. I got a pizza sandwich and a vanilla ice cream from McDonalds’ (the pizza wasn’t from there). As we sat on the bus driving down south all of us were constantly looking out the windows. The view was so pretty and different. It was all desert and you could se soo far! When we finally got to Kibbutz Yahel we got our room assignments and had some time to relax. So my friends came over to my room and we talked and listened to some music. Eventually we watched Mean girls too. Then we went to erev Rosh Hashana services. They weren’t bad or very long but by the time we all got out and went to the Dinning Hall we were soo hungry. Then we learned we had to wait another 20 min. for actual food! All we had were the dips. Luckily though we had apples and honey. We weren’t supposed to eat them yet but we ate them anyway. Then we had hallah and real food. It wasn’t quite exactly my normal Rosh Hashana dinner but it will have to do. After that we had a few minutes to change and go to the dance party on the kibbutz. Eventually the party got too hot, so I went back to my room, changed, and got my computer. However now that I have my computer and am sitting outside the internet hasn’t liked me.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Actual free time?
So for the first time in days i can post before i go to bed! woohoo! but the reason behind it is really sad. we just finished moving all of our stuff out of our rooms. its so empty except for our stuff we are taking for our trip down south. I feel so lonely without everything and I am really scared that i won't have everything i need. anyway today....
as usual we got up for breakfast and went to hebrew class. we learned some stuff, went over homework, and then made happy new year's cards. i was going to make one to send to mommy but i decided i liked it too much. so instead i am keeping it for my scrapbook (yeah i'm that kid who scrapbooks...deal with it). We ended class early so everyone,Jewish history teachers, all the students, all the hebrew teachers, and other staff could say the blessings and eat apples and honey yumm :) I love apples and honey! but i have to say i will miss celebrating the new year with brisket, latkes, and chocolate cake with rasberry sauce. but i guess mommy will just have to make all that for the new year in jan. when i come home. ANYWAY, after eating way too many pieces of apple i went to jewish history class. we learned about all of jacob's sons. it was pretty interesting. Then i had lunch and guess what i tried something new! i mean it wasn't that i hadnt had it before but it was the first time i had it in israel. It was a stuffed pepper that had rice,peas, and pepper inside. it was sooo good! Then i went back to my room to continue packing up my stuff. and today my econ. teacher wasnt here so i had extra time to pack. then i went to physics and got my test back (i got a 100 percent-go me!)then we learned something new. then i went to english class and we read a story by Hemingway. Then we wrote a fast paper based on the story. then i went to math class but no one was really paying attention cause it was review from last year. and we were all tired. so we got out early. when i went back to my room i attempted to get internet and i did some homework so i wouldn't have to take it with me. then i had dinner and went to our meeting. then i had to quickly finish packing so i could get all my stuff to storage in time. luckily i did. then i went outside (where i am currently) b/c i actually get internet out here. in the process of writing this post dory, sam, and i skyped alina. first on dory's computer, then sam's, and lastly mine. it was an adventure. and that takes us to right now. but since i am done i am going to finish this post.
i don't know if u will be able to post while i am gone but i will write my post for the day and post it when i can.
Happy New Year!
as usual we got up for breakfast and went to hebrew class. we learned some stuff, went over homework, and then made happy new year's cards. i was going to make one to send to mommy but i decided i liked it too much. so instead i am keeping it for my scrapbook (yeah i'm that kid who scrapbooks...deal with it). We ended class early so everyone,Jewish history teachers, all the students, all the hebrew teachers, and other staff could say the blessings and eat apples and honey yumm :) I love apples and honey! but i have to say i will miss celebrating the new year with brisket, latkes, and chocolate cake with rasberry sauce. but i guess mommy will just have to make all that for the new year in jan. when i come home. ANYWAY, after eating way too many pieces of apple i went to jewish history class. we learned about all of jacob's sons. it was pretty interesting. Then i had lunch and guess what i tried something new! i mean it wasn't that i hadnt had it before but it was the first time i had it in israel. It was a stuffed pepper that had rice,peas, and pepper inside. it was sooo good! Then i went back to my room to continue packing up my stuff. and today my econ. teacher wasnt here so i had extra time to pack. then i went to physics and got my test back (i got a 100 percent-go me!)then we learned something new. then i went to english class and we read a story by Hemingway. Then we wrote a fast paper based on the story. then i went to math class but no one was really paying attention cause it was review from last year. and we were all tired. so we got out early. when i went back to my room i attempted to get internet and i did some homework so i wouldn't have to take it with me. then i had dinner and went to our meeting. then i had to quickly finish packing so i could get all my stuff to storage in time. luckily i did. then i went outside (where i am currently) b/c i actually get internet out here. in the process of writing this post dory, sam, and i skyped alina. first on dory's computer, then sam's, and lastly mine. it was an adventure. and that takes us to right now. but since i am done i am going to finish this post.
i don't know if u will be able to post while i am gone but i will write my post for the day and post it when i can.
Happy New Year!
So much to do so little time!
Hi there,
Today was a regular school day. We woke up, went to breakfast, and then had Hebrew class. Which was fun minus the test we took, but it was on writing in script which I am good with so it wasn’t too bad. Then we had Jewish history. Which as always was interesting. Today we started to learn about the patricharcs. Well actually since we have already been learning about Abraham we focused more on Isaac and Jacob. In an effort to save time, during all our breaks I worked on my Hebrew homework and studied for the physics test I was going to be having 3rd period. After Jewish History, I had lunch and studied for my physics test. Then I went to Econ. Which was interesting. Today we learned how we went from trading product for product to products for money (whether it be currency, gems, or metals). Then I had physics. I was expecting some formal quiz but it ended up being 5 questions that we wrote on a sheet of paper and then answered. It wasn’t as hard as I thought it was going to be which was nice. Then we learned some knew info and did some practice problems. But we are learning about vectors and I learned that last year in Pre calc. so I didn’t really pay attention b/c I already knew the concepts. Then I went to English, we went over some rhetorical devices and continued reading “From the desk of david varsky”. It is a really good story (I mean I think it is). The writing style is very much like mine so it is fun to read. Plus it has a dark, mysterious, depressing side to it and my favorite books usually contain those types of plots. Then I had math, which as usual was good. I stayed after for a minute though so my teacher could help me with some small details on stuff that I had a great deal of trouble with last year. After that I went back to my room to do homework. Today I actually got homework done during my off period! Although I am not going to lie, a great deal of the reason I got stuff done was b/c the internet has decided to not work. Not Yay! ☹ After that we had dinner and our usual meeting. But tonight our meeting wasn’t very long b/c the SAT prep course started! WOOHOO! (but not really). So instead they decided we would have a 2nd meeting at 10. I am taking the SAT class so I had to go tonight. (which is why it was important for me to get homework done earlier). We did a section of the math and English from the diagnostic test in our book so that we could be placed in to classes. The test wasn’t too hard and I finished both sections with time to spare. Oddly enough though some of the seniors, who have already taken the SAT had more trouble finishing the questions than I did and I have only ever taken the PSAT (2 times) and a mock-SAT. Then I went back to my room to do homework but first I went to the Belmont to try and get internet (it failed). So I completed my homework and went to our meeting. We were given instructions about packing for this weekend and packing up all our stuff to move out of our rooms (every time we go on a trip that is longer than a night we have to move out so the hotel can rent out our rooms b/c they are hotel rooms). After the meeting I hung out with my friend for a while and started to pack up my stuff. Now I am going to bed b/c tomorrow I have 8 and half hours of school.
P.S. sorry that this was posted late, the internet doesn’t like me very much
Today was a regular school day. We woke up, went to breakfast, and then had Hebrew class. Which was fun minus the test we took, but it was on writing in script which I am good with so it wasn’t too bad. Then we had Jewish history. Which as always was interesting. Today we started to learn about the patricharcs. Well actually since we have already been learning about Abraham we focused more on Isaac and Jacob. In an effort to save time, during all our breaks I worked on my Hebrew homework and studied for the physics test I was going to be having 3rd period. After Jewish History, I had lunch and studied for my physics test. Then I went to Econ. Which was interesting. Today we learned how we went from trading product for product to products for money (whether it be currency, gems, or metals). Then I had physics. I was expecting some formal quiz but it ended up being 5 questions that we wrote on a sheet of paper and then answered. It wasn’t as hard as I thought it was going to be which was nice. Then we learned some knew info and did some practice problems. But we are learning about vectors and I learned that last year in Pre calc. so I didn’t really pay attention b/c I already knew the concepts. Then I went to English, we went over some rhetorical devices and continued reading “From the desk of david varsky”. It is a really good story (I mean I think it is). The writing style is very much like mine so it is fun to read. Plus it has a dark, mysterious, depressing side to it and my favorite books usually contain those types of plots. Then I had math, which as usual was good. I stayed after for a minute though so my teacher could help me with some small details on stuff that I had a great deal of trouble with last year. After that I went back to my room to do homework. Today I actually got homework done during my off period! Although I am not going to lie, a great deal of the reason I got stuff done was b/c the internet has decided to not work. Not Yay! ☹ After that we had dinner and our usual meeting. But tonight our meeting wasn’t very long b/c the SAT prep course started! WOOHOO! (but not really). So instead they decided we would have a 2nd meeting at 10. I am taking the SAT class so I had to go tonight. (which is why it was important for me to get homework done earlier). We did a section of the math and English from the diagnostic test in our book so that we could be placed in to classes. The test wasn’t too hard and I finished both sections with time to spare. Oddly enough though some of the seniors, who have already taken the SAT had more trouble finishing the questions than I did and I have only ever taken the PSAT (2 times) and a mock-SAT. Then I went back to my room to do homework but first I went to the Belmont to try and get internet (it failed). So I completed my homework and went to our meeting. We were given instructions about packing for this weekend and packing up all our stuff to move out of our rooms (every time we go on a trip that is longer than a night we have to move out so the hotel can rent out our rooms b/c they are hotel rooms). After the meeting I hung out with my friend for a while and started to pack up my stuff. Now I am going to bed b/c tomorrow I have 8 and half hours of school.
P.S. sorry that this was posted late, the internet doesn’t like me very much
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Such a long day!
So this morning we had to wake up at 6:30! It was so early! I ate breakfast quickly and took David Solomon (the assistant principal) my SAT registration form b/c i had some questions and they were due today. (if u are wondering i am retaking the SAT2s in Nov. Then we got on the bus and drove to Tel Gezer which was about a 45 minute drive. I studied for my U.S. history SAT2 the entire way to keep busy. When we got there we split up into our Jewish History classes and proceeded to learn about the area and culture. We learned about how archeologists being their search for artifacts and information on the area, about the 4 D's (drink, dollar, defense, and dinner), learned the history of the sight, and questioned why Abraham did not end up settling in the area. If you are wondering it is b/c the town was originally paganistic and sacrificed the first born child, which Abraham did not believe in. When all the classes finished their tour and learning we all meet up and had a quick service. Then we got back on the bus and went back to Tzuba. When we got back it was time for general studies. I was so happy i have first period lunch. I was able to shower, eat, talk to daivd about my classes, go to the market, and work on something for mar. At the market i bought grapes, a chocolate bar, and nature valley bars for snacks on trips. My classes went by really quickly today. In econ. we discussed the articles on the economy we found for homework, in physics we solved vectors (which was easy for me b/c i have already taken pre calc) and applied the formulas we learned last class. In english we actually did work and got real books to read! we went over some rhetorical devices and each picked a book. I choose The Age of Innocence and am excited to start reading it. In math we took notes and had some random discussions as usual. Then I went back to my room to continue working on the thing I was doing for NFTY-Mar (but now someone else is working on it so I dont have to). Then i made a quesadilla and went to dinner b/c i had to. After dinner i went to our mandatory meeting and went back to my room to do homework. I had a lot to do and am still not done but i am super tired so I am going to sleep b/c i have a full day of classes and tests tomorrow!
p.s. sorry their isnt more detail- i can barely keep my head up
p.s. sorry their isnt more detail- i can barely keep my head up
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Doing Nothing all day
Ni Hao,
See I do know how to use my Chinese skills. :) So this morning was wonderful I slept til 10:15! But I was still tired. I went to services and the lunch and then went back to my room put on sweatpants and proceeded to get homework done. And I did! Yay! I spent the entire day in my room doing homework with some friends. It was great. I really enjoy just sitting around in sweatpants so it was enjoyable. Then we went to dinner and had havdalah. After that I went back to my room to finish homework. So basically my day was doing nothing. It was wonderful. There really isnt anything else to say. Lila Tov
See I do know how to use my Chinese skills. :) So this morning was wonderful I slept til 10:15! But I was still tired. I went to services and the lunch and then went back to my room put on sweatpants and proceeded to get homework done. And I did! Yay! I spent the entire day in my room doing homework with some friends. It was great. I really enjoy just sitting around in sweatpants so it was enjoyable. Then we went to dinner and had havdalah. After that I went back to my room to finish homework. So basically my day was doing nothing. It was wonderful. There really isnt anything else to say. Lila Tov
Friday, September 3, 2010
I just want to relax!
Hi there,
This morning we woke up and went to a soup kitchen. We were split into 2 rotations. The first was helping in the soup kitchen (prepping/serving or making food packages) and the other was talking about what Tzedakah is. I had the learning about Tzedakah rotation first. It was boring b/c we talked about Maimonides/Rambam's ladder(which i have done sooo many times). Then I made food packages. Then we walked to the Shuk and had 50 shekels per 2 people. So I shared with my friend Yael. We each got a piece of pizza and then got a chocolate rugela to share,2 other cookies (one each), and 2 apples(one each). It was like 23 shekels total which is really good. Sadly though they never told us that there was walking and such involved in our activites today so I wore my cute flats instead of sneakers and I don't think was a very good idea. Then we went back to Tzuba and had some free time. So i skyped with mom, attempted to fill out my SAT form, and started my Jewish History homework. Then we had services and dinner. I actually had dinner tonight though! Yay! Then we had oneg song session and had time to get ready for the dance party. After the dance we had free time so my friends and I just relaxed and talked. I am excited for tomorrow though it's a day of sleeping and relaxing and homework. Should be fun.
This morning we woke up and went to a soup kitchen. We were split into 2 rotations. The first was helping in the soup kitchen (prepping/serving or making food packages) and the other was talking about what Tzedakah is. I had the learning about Tzedakah rotation first. It was boring b/c we talked about Maimonides/Rambam's ladder(which i have done sooo many times). Then I made food packages. Then we walked to the Shuk and had 50 shekels per 2 people. So I shared with my friend Yael. We each got a piece of pizza and then got a chocolate rugela to share,2 other cookies (one each), and 2 apples(one each). It was like 23 shekels total which is really good. Sadly though they never told us that there was walking and such involved in our activites today so I wore my cute flats instead of sneakers and I don't think was a very good idea. Then we went back to Tzuba and had some free time. So i skyped with mom, attempted to fill out my SAT form, and started my Jewish History homework. Then we had services and dinner. I actually had dinner tonight though! Yay! Then we had oneg song session and had time to get ready for the dance party. After the dance we had free time so my friends and I just relaxed and talked. I am excited for tomorrow though it's a day of sleeping and relaxing and homework. Should be fun.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Familiar Food
Hey!
So today was our last day of school for the week. usually we would have hebrew and jewish studies tomorrow morning but we have a mitzvah project instead. This morning we had our usual routine...hebrew and then jewish studies. In hebrew we learned plural verbs and it jewish history we discussed Noah's ark and learned about the peace meetings that began today at home. Then we had lunch, and classes. all the general studies classes go by so quickly that i feel like all we have time to do is review. In econ. we discussed Adam smith and learned more about the history of economics. In physics we actually took notes! it was wonderful! but we have a test on monday which isn't so wonderful. My english teacher was sick today so i had a free period to relax which was nice. Then I had math which as usual was good. But we are still going over stuff from the last 4 years so it is a little boring. Then I went back to my room, straightened my hair, ate a quesadilla, and got ready for the mall. around 7:30 we got on the bus and went to the mall in Jerusalem. It wasn't really anything special, it was mostly stores that we have in the u.s. but i did get food. i had a hamburger (i just didnt really eat the buns) which was nice cause i haven't had a lot of protein since i got sick. right before we got on the bus i got a small strawberry banana smoothie that was really small and expensive (a large at home prob. cost less) but i needed something that my stomach was familiar with. Then we got back on the buses and went back to Tzuba. We had some free time, but we also had room checks so we had to clean our rooms (it wasn't fun). We have late wake up tomorrow though so being up late right now isn't too big on an issue. But i am tired so goodnight!
So today was our last day of school for the week. usually we would have hebrew and jewish studies tomorrow morning but we have a mitzvah project instead. This morning we had our usual routine...hebrew and then jewish studies. In hebrew we learned plural verbs and it jewish history we discussed Noah's ark and learned about the peace meetings that began today at home. Then we had lunch, and classes. all the general studies classes go by so quickly that i feel like all we have time to do is review. In econ. we discussed Adam smith and learned more about the history of economics. In physics we actually took notes! it was wonderful! but we have a test on monday which isn't so wonderful. My english teacher was sick today so i had a free period to relax which was nice. Then I had math which as usual was good. But we are still going over stuff from the last 4 years so it is a little boring. Then I went back to my room, straightened my hair, ate a quesadilla, and got ready for the mall. around 7:30 we got on the bus and went to the mall in Jerusalem. It wasn't really anything special, it was mostly stores that we have in the u.s. but i did get food. i had a hamburger (i just didnt really eat the buns) which was nice cause i haven't had a lot of protein since i got sick. right before we got on the bus i got a small strawberry banana smoothie that was really small and expensive (a large at home prob. cost less) but i needed something that my stomach was familiar with. Then we got back on the buses and went back to Tzuba. We had some free time, but we also had room checks so we had to clean our rooms (it wasn't fun). We have late wake up tomorrow though so being up late right now isn't too big on an issue. But i am tired so goodnight!
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
First full day
Hello,
Today was a LONG day! I woke up, got ready, and went to breakfast as usual. Then we had Hebrew and since I missed yesterday today was my first day. It was a little frightening. I felt like missing one day I had missed so much even though I had done the worksheets everyone else had. We learned the 2nd half of the alphabet in script (which I already knew) and worked on a dialogue. My friend Yael and I had to performs ours as a rap but it didn’t really work well for me. My real problem with Hebrew (I had the same problem with Chinese) is that I can read and write I just don’t understand what it is I am saying or writing. After Hebrew we had Jewish studies, which was interesting. We started learning about the story of creation and how the first 2 chapters of genesis are different stories of creation that basically contradict each other. After that I went to lunch, as usual. Then one of my friends/roommates, Mishala, and I went to the market to stock up our room with food. I bought a card for my friend (who is on the trip)’s birthday, some oreos, peanut butter bam ba, cheese, and tortillas. Because my econ. Teacher was not here today I had 1st and 2nd period off. During 2nd period I had a meeting with my Jewish History teacher, Ariella, b/c she wants to get to know everyone in our class individually. Then I went back to the room and relaxed before my classes. Physics as always was pretty boring (we just did practice problems), English was abnormally boring and our teacher speaks so quietly that I can’t hear him. The best class out of all my classes is Math. My teacher actually teaches like the teachers at Whitman, which is really nice b/c it is familiar. Plus math is the same in every country, which is nice. I also really like my math class. There are 4 of us and we all do NFTY in our respective regions so we always have stuff to talk about other besides math. They guy in our class brought Israeli pop rocks chocolate for us today too, which was fun! So tomorrow I am bringing some oreos. I don’t have a 6th period so after math I went back to my room to start some homework, but I don’t think I actually did any. Around 6:45ish I decided to make half of a quesadilla in the microwave as part one of my dinner (part 2 was in the dining hall and it was some red peppers). While mom doubted how good a quesadilla made in the microwave would be I thought it was wonderful! It is the closet thing to food from home (other than my multi. Grain cheerios) I have had while I have been here. I decided I will be having one every night (especially b/c usually when I walk into the dinning hall I feel sick from all the smells I am not used to). Then I went to dinner b/c it is mandatory, followed by our mandatory 7:30 group meeting. After that my friend Sydney came over to my room so we could do math, Hebrew and English homework. In the process we also tried nutella (which mishala bought) with bam ba and oreos. Both tasted so good! Then Sydney and I went to her room to finish the Hebrew and English. After that I went back to my room to finish up some other homework, relax, and shower. And now I am going to bed. Goodnight.
Today was a LONG day! I woke up, got ready, and went to breakfast as usual. Then we had Hebrew and since I missed yesterday today was my first day. It was a little frightening. I felt like missing one day I had missed so much even though I had done the worksheets everyone else had. We learned the 2nd half of the alphabet in script (which I already knew) and worked on a dialogue. My friend Yael and I had to performs ours as a rap but it didn’t really work well for me. My real problem with Hebrew (I had the same problem with Chinese) is that I can read and write I just don’t understand what it is I am saying or writing. After Hebrew we had Jewish studies, which was interesting. We started learning about the story of creation and how the first 2 chapters of genesis are different stories of creation that basically contradict each other. After that I went to lunch, as usual. Then one of my friends/roommates, Mishala, and I went to the market to stock up our room with food. I bought a card for my friend (who is on the trip)’s birthday, some oreos, peanut butter bam ba, cheese, and tortillas. Because my econ. Teacher was not here today I had 1st and 2nd period off. During 2nd period I had a meeting with my Jewish History teacher, Ariella, b/c she wants to get to know everyone in our class individually. Then I went back to the room and relaxed before my classes. Physics as always was pretty boring (we just did practice problems), English was abnormally boring and our teacher speaks so quietly that I can’t hear him. The best class out of all my classes is Math. My teacher actually teaches like the teachers at Whitman, which is really nice b/c it is familiar. Plus math is the same in every country, which is nice. I also really like my math class. There are 4 of us and we all do NFTY in our respective regions so we always have stuff to talk about other besides math. They guy in our class brought Israeli pop rocks chocolate for us today too, which was fun! So tomorrow I am bringing some oreos. I don’t have a 6th period so after math I went back to my room to start some homework, but I don’t think I actually did any. Around 6:45ish I decided to make half of a quesadilla in the microwave as part one of my dinner (part 2 was in the dining hall and it was some red peppers). While mom doubted how good a quesadilla made in the microwave would be I thought it was wonderful! It is the closet thing to food from home (other than my multi. Grain cheerios) I have had while I have been here. I decided I will be having one every night (especially b/c usually when I walk into the dinning hall I feel sick from all the smells I am not used to). Then I went to dinner b/c it is mandatory, followed by our mandatory 7:30 group meeting. After that my friend Sydney came over to my room so we could do math, Hebrew and English homework. In the process we also tried nutella (which mishala bought) with bam ba and oreos. Both tasted so good! Then Sydney and I went to her room to finish the Hebrew and English. After that I went back to my room to finish up some other homework, relax, and shower. And now I am going to bed. Goodnight.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)